I’ve had plenty of computer time this last few days. I became concerned because if our office is hit with a ransomware attack, we would be in pretty bad shape. The board approved a security review with an outside consultant. Of course, they brought up plenty of issues for us to address. I’ll be asking for the office personnel to do a few extra things, plus changes that will take a lot of my time, plus $1500 for software and hardware. The board will have to approve this. Sad but true, my time is the least important element to the board.

The report that the outside consultant wrote looks well organized, but it’s not. There is a summary page followed by discussion and recommendations. They aren’t in the same order. Some issues are in the summary, some in the recommendations, and some are in both. Things are plopped on paper without any numbering scheme (not even page numbers). I wrote my own document reorganizing the blob into recommended actions in order of importance. I didn’t want the board to think I am making up stuff, which means I wanted to provided cross-references. I ended up modifying the consultant’s report by adding page numbers and numbered annotations. The consultant actually did an excellent job in the review. It’s just that he isn’t a very good technical writer.

As usual, every step of the process was slightly delayed. I started the process late in August. Now we’re in the holiday season, with several board members preparing to go south for the season. The consultant presented his report early Friday. I wanted to make a first-cut presentation to the board tomorrow evening. Technically, I didn’t get things done in time, and it’s not on Monday’s agenda. But I have excellent support o the board. The Vice President suggested a way to start deliberations Monday even though this isn’t on the agenda. We’ll see how things go.

I’m not sure if I mentioned this, but I also launched a volunteer computer support service. Residents can make an appointment to meet me at the clubhouse. I’ve gotten some nibbles, but the restrictions have limited usefulness. Sessions have to be in the clubhouse because the board has insurance that covers volunteers, but only if the activity is on board property — i.e. in the clubhouse. This is a serious limitation to those residents who use desktop computers, or want something configured to the WiFi in their house. Of four requests, I have been able to help one resident.

Danita’s preparing for a colonoscopy today. It’s not exactly the most comfortable thing, but we’re grateful for good medical services.

The rain of the last few days is clearing up. It’s time for a ride. I hope this finds everybody doing well.